Tools

Record Store Day

Ten years ago, a passel of independent record store owners in Baltimore launched Record Store Day to proclaim the uniqueness of their venues—and of course, to increase foot traffic. They succeeded beyond their wildest dreams. Independent record stores have emerged victorious over chains, and the day has become an institution. And as with all institutions comes a predictability and commodification. Offerings this year run the gamut from the unimpeachable (twelve-inch singles by Prince) to repackaged scraps (a pair of unreleased demos by the Smiths) to self-congratulatory gestures, like the vinyl release of Marcy Playground's debut album in commemoration of its twentieth anniversary. Never mind the Nick Cave action figures available online. But the point of RSD that will always be worth celebrating is that it's a chance to support your local record stores, many of which depend on it for their best payday of the year. And really, what would the Triangle be without them? Visit the Record Store Day website for a list of participating shops. —David Klein